The Punjab government has taken stringent administrative action by terminating the services of four employees from the State Tax Department for remaining absent from duty without authorisation for more than a year. The action, based on the 'deemed resignation' clause, was confirmed by officials on Thursday.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Indiscipline
Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the state administration maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance towards indiscipline and neglect of duty. He emphasised that public service demands dedication and regular presence, and employees who fail to meet these basic standards have no place in the government machinery. The minister reiterated the government's commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable administrative system for Punjab's citizens.
The Cases and The Rule Invoked
The orders for termination were issued by State Tax Commissioner Jatinder Jorwal following a detailed inquiry process under Rule 8 of the Punjab Civil Services (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1970. The affected employees include three Excise and Taxation Inspectors and one Clerk.
The department invoked specific Finance Department instructions dated March 13, 2025. This regulation clearly states that any government employee who remains absent without sanctioned leave for a period exceeding one year shall be considered to have resigned from service. A critical consequence of this 'deemed resignation' is the forfeiture of all post-service benefits, including gratuity and pension.
Details of the Absentee Employees
The officials provided specifics of each case:
- An Inspector posted in Jalandhar-2 had been absent since March 15, 2023, after his leave application was denied.
- Another Inspector remained continuously absent from June 24, 2023, failing to report to his headquarters even while under suspension.
- An Inspector from the Ropar Range did not return after an approved Ex-India leave concluded on May 29, 2021. Despite citing medical reasons and heart surgery, independent inquiries found him negligent as he failed to participate in official investigations, even via virtual means.
- A Clerk in the Jalandhar Audit Wing stopped reporting for duty from September 11, 2023, following the non-approval of his request for ex-India leave.
The competent authority noted that while some employees presented explanations related to family or health, they did not resume their duties within the legally allowed timeframe. Multiple legal notices and opportunities to rejoin service were provided before the final administrative orders were passed.
This decisive move underscores the state government's push for greater accountability and discipline within its administrative ranks, setting a precedent for handling prolonged, unauthorised absences.
